2 Sisters Food Group has invested in a multi-million pound expansion of its added value chicken processing plant in Cambuslang, Scotland, creating up to 180 jobs in the region.

The cash has been spent on a 1,022m2​ extension to its existing plant, housing two modern high volume ovens, spiral chillers and freezers, plus a general refurbishment of the current site.

The Cambuslang factory, based in Westburn Farm Road, handles ‘added value’ roasted and coated chicken products, such as breaded and seasoned chicken.

The new extension has the potential to boost the plant’s capacity by up to 50%, enabling it to keep pace with customer demand, the firm claimed.

New shift patterns​

The key to the expansion was agreement with all employees at the plant to change shift patterns and move to a seven day a week, 24 hour operation, 2 Sisters said. The new shift patterns start from mid-February.

“We’re delighted to have come to an agreement with the unions and extended our working hours at the factory,”​ said Olivier Goudineau, md of 2 Sisters added value poultry. “This has unlocked the expansion plan and in turn means we can take on 180 additional colleagues.​

“A lot of hard work has gone into realising this opportunity and it’s a great example of working together to achieve our aims. Our colleagues, the Unite union, the local regeneration team in Scotland plus MSP ​[Member of the Scottish Parliament] James Kelly have all been instrumental in making this happen.​

‘Further investment’​

“I hope this expansion signals the beginning further investment in the Scottish poultry industry.”​

Rutherglen and Cambuslang MSP Kelly responded: “This is great news for the workforce at the Cambuslang plant who have fought hard to protect their livelihoods and will also be a welcome boost to the local economy. ​

“I welcome the creation of new jobs in my constituency and will work with all interested parties to bring investment and employment into the area.​

‘Exciting project’​

“The Cambuslang plant is already one of the biggest employers in the area and I will continue to work alongside the 2 Sisters Food Group and others on this very exciting project for the local area.”​

2 Sisters acquired the factory when it bought most of Vion’s UK red meat and poultry processing sites in March last year.

This latest development comes as further positive news for workers there after the Office of Fair Trading decided not to refer the acquisition​ to competition authorities last July.

The decision safeguarded the 400-strong workforce at the plant, which 2 Sisters would otherwise have been forced to sell.